Michael B. Jordan wants to highlight basketball players at historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs).
The Black Panther actor announced on Wednesday (Dec. 16) that he will be launching The Hoop Dreams Classic, which is an inaugural basketball showcase for HBCUs. The first event will be held on Dec. 18, 2021 in at the Prudential Center in Newark, New Jersey.
According to PEOPLE, The Hoops Dreams Classic will be a one-day. doubleheader showcase that will feature four of the top Division I HBCU women’s and men’s basketball teams. Other elements of HBCU life will be highlighted at the yearly event, including live musical performances, a battle of the bands, film festivals, college and career opportunities and culinary events.
“This past year has been the tipping point for so many, including myself, in revving up support for Black people,” Jordan said in a statement, according to Forbes. “As a Newark native, I am committed to bringing change to the community and am honored to be able to present The Hoop Dreams Classic as a way to celebrate the value of community, education and Black college experiences. Through our shared love of basketball, I look forward to bringing the communal spirit of HBCUs to the city that helped shape me into the man I am today.”
A portion of the proceeds of the event will go towards organizations that are focused on advancing HBCUs and the Newark community where Jordan attend high school.
“After seeing firsthand the lack of resources and information available to basketball players, I was determined to make Hoop Dreams the vehicle that could provide the tools these kids need to be successful in life beyond the game,” said Hoop Dreams CEO Jessica Estrada. “Michael and I share similar foundations and visions for our communities which is why I am thrilled to partner with him.”